Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Health Care & Wellness Committee |
SSB 6009
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning long-term care facilities.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Keiser, Kastama and Fairley).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/24/09
Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146)
Background:
The Medicaid program pays for the long-term care services of eligible individuals in nursing home, boarding home, and adult family homes. Facility policies related to accepting Medicaid as a funding source can vary between categories of facilities and even between facilities in the same category.
Summary of Bill:
Long-term care facilities must fully disclose to residents, orally and in writing prior to admission, the facility's policy on accepting Medicaid as a payment source. This must be done in a language that the resident or the resident's representative understands. The policy must clearly state the circumstances under which the facility provides care to Medicaid eligible residents, and for residents who may later become eligible for Medicaid.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.